Some people may be rubbing their eyes or cleaning their glasses at the sight of the tired old green street signs that sit atop brand new black poles.

Excitement at the arrival of the first order of Crafton's new street signs two weeks ago was somewhat muted when it was discovered that they were the wrong color. As a result, the old signs remain in place, much to the chagrin of the Crafton Historical Society.

"The signs were a royal blue instead of navy," said society member Megan Schriver of the 6-inch-tall cross brackets on which the reflective-lettered street name is placed. Schriver and Maura Sevier-Burgess are chairwomen of the project.

The volunteer organization has undertaken the daunting task of replacing some 108 borough street signs and some 54 posts over a several-year period. "The color just doesn't provide that rich, historical look we want," Schriver said.

But the installation of 20 poles on Steuben Street, Noble Avenue, Crafton Boulevard and around the borough building will continue in preparation for their proper toppings when they arrive within the next few months.

"It's unfortunate that this happened, but we are really glad that it's not our mistake," said Schriver, who attributed the errant color selection to a computer error or wrong code selection.

Tapco Inc., the Wisconsin-based manufacturer contracted for the estimated $60,000 project, has admitted the mistake and will correct it, according to Schriver, who said that a truck had been dispatched to return them.

"But now we just have to wait a little longer," said the chairwoman, noting that the original order had been placed in December with an initial payment of $20,000.

Meanwhile, the organization continues to plan fund-raising programs to finance the project and is seeking to obtain grant funding as well.

As part of a "Dear Neighbor" letter campaign under way, people are being asked to support the project with donations. The sale of a poster featuring leaded and stained glass windows of local homes is planned, and proceeds from the annual Christmas House Tour will be used for the street sign project.

"There is a lot of interest in this project, and we are confident that the community will support it," Schriver said.